Alternative Teacher Certification Programs Can Help Fill Nationwide Teacher Shortage

Though it may seem improbable during an economic crisis when jobs are scarce across the board, there is a growing need for secondary-level school teachers in many states. While this is especially true for math and science teachers at the high school level (who are in demand like never before), as well as for teachers who are willing to work in either very urban or very rural school districts, quality instructors are needed in just about every subject area.

Particularly in this economy, many people consider teaching when they are seeking a career change. There are a couple of different ways you can get licensed to teach at public high schools. The more traditional way, of course, is to get a college degree in secondary education, which can take years and thousands of dollars. In order to fill the growing need, however, some states are permitting alternative teacher certification programs.

To qualify for most of these programs, you must have, of course, a certain level of expertise in the area in which you intend to teach. In some cases, you can even get a temporary license that will allow you to teach at the same time you are taking classes toward your permanent credentials - you can earn while you learn. There are classes available in just about every conceivable form. With a little searching, you should be able to find opportunities to take these classes whenever works best for you, whether it's during the day, in the evening or even online. There are also accelerated programs that allow you to earn your credentials in an even shorter time frame.

As mentioned above, to qualify for alternative licensing, you will need to have a minimal amount of real-world experience in your chosen field. This can come in the form of either education (e.g. a master's degree program) or a level of actual on-the-job experience in the pertinent subject area.

The requirements for secondary education licenses vary from state to state, so before committing to any given program, you should make sure that you will finish with whatever is required for a license where you live or in the state that you are considering relocating to.

Whether your company has recently been downsized, or you are simply looking for change and a chance to positively impact the lives of youth, these educational programs provide you with a relatively quick path to a very rewarding and in-demand new career.